There are a few numbers in our lives that have a high level of emphasis placed on them; the number of years you’ve been on this earth, the number in your bank account, and your GPA. In the realm of academia, it seems that GPA is the only thing people care about. Grades, Grades, Grades, everyone is worrying about getting the highest grade they can, they don’t even master the material, and miss opportunities to develop as a person. The latter point is especially important because students are typically under 25, where were still developing and it is vital to learn ourselves at this age. Due to all of this, extracurriculars are far more important than the number on your transcript.
One of my primary arguments supporting extracurricular activities revolves around the holistic development of individuals. While GPA may measure academic success, it often fails to capture the diverse skills and qualities that are crucial for success in various facets of life. Extracurricular activities, whether in sports, arts, or community service, provide students with opportunities to gain skills such as leadership, teamwork, time management, and resilience. These skills are for personal development, and they lead to a better overall life, that doesn’t necessarily include school 24/7.
Additionally, extracurricular activities foster a sense of community and belonging. Unlike the solitary nature of GPA-focused achievements, participation in extracurricular activities build interpersonal connections. Students engaged in extracurriculars often develop a strong support network, fostering friendships and mentorships that can last a lifetime. This social aspect not only enhances the overall student experience but also improves the mental health of the student.
That gets into my next point, extracurricular involvement has been linked to improved mental health and overall well-being. The pressures associated with maintaining a high GPA can sometimes lead to stress and burnout, which actually leads to a lower GPA. In contrast, participation in extracurriculars offers students an outlet for creativity, self-expression, and stress relief outside of the classroom. Rather than the counter-intuitive approach of studying your heart out, broadening your range of activity may actually lead to a better GPA through offering a lower stress life.
In the context of college admissions and future success, extracurricular activities can be a distinguishing factor. While a high GPA is undoubtedly important, there are a ton of students with the same GPA. Extracurricular achievements showcase a student’s passions, interests, and commitment beyond academic pursuits. Colleges and employers often seek individuals with a diverse skill set and a demonstrated ability to work in various facets of life. In the real world, both “book smarts” and “street smarts” are needed, the latter of which is developed through extracurriculars.
My last point is that extracurriculars are just fun. Very few people are going to enjoy themselves studying all the time. Before and during college is the time for fun, and studying all the time isn’t fun. Extracurriculars offer a chance to enjoy childhood and find yourself. This is necessary to live a happy and enjoyable life.
In conclusion, my argument that extracurricular activities are more important than GPA comes from the fact that your life, as well as college admissions, extend more than the score you got on your last test. Extracurricular involvement leads to better personal development, creates life-long relationships, enhances mental health, and distinguishes individuals in college admissions. Embracing an overall approach that values both GPA and extracurricular achievements should be the goal for us all.